Getting Out of Bed

After Abdominal or Chest Surgery

This information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor.
MedSelfEd, Inc. disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

This program provides you with tips to help you get out of bed after abdominal or chest surgery.

For the first few days when you come home after surgery, it is always best to have a family member or friend help you to get out of bed.

Do not get out of bed directly from lying flat. Always sit up in bed for a few minutes.

Move the bedcovers well out of the way. Move nearer to the side of the bed. Pivot your body and legs so that you are sitting with your legs dangling over the side of the bed. Hold the mattress with your hands for support and keep your back straight.

Gently swing your legs back and forth, bend and stretch your ankles and twiddle your toes. If you feel faint or weak, go back to bed.

Have your helper put on your socks, and shoes or sturdy slippers with low heels and non-slip soles.

Use a footstool if the bed is too high for your feet to reach the floor without sliding off the bed.

Stand still on the floor with your feet slightly apart for a few seconds.

Have your helper put on and fasten your robe.

For the first few times out of bed, when you feel strong enough, walk a few steps to a bedside chair with arms.

When you reach the chair, turn round so that your calves are touching the front of the chair.

Bend your knees, grasp both arms of the chair firmly and lower yourself backward into the chair. Reverse the process to get out of the chair.

At any time,

if you feel weak

or dizzy

or have chest pain,

let your helper get you back to bed

and inform your doctor.

Some additional tips for the helper to follow.

Make sure your own footwear has non-slip soles.

Remove any hazards from the floor, such as slip rugs, frayed carpet or linoleum, or electric cords.

Stand at the side of your patient, not directly in front

Avoid lifting your patient under the arms. This can cause pain or dislocation of the shoulder joint.